Preseason Top 40 for 2013-14

Earlier this week, my ESPN colleague Jason King offered up his Top 25 for 2013-14 and Andy Katz countered with his. So I've decided to join the fun!

I know it is early, but it gave me something to do while sitting at The Broken Egg. It is subject to change as other player moves, injuries, transfers, etc. can happen. For the moment, here is my look at the best that college hoops has to offer for the 2013-14 campaign.

A number of players have declared for the NBA draft. That group certainly influenced my look at the early top 40 teams for next season.

Analysis: For those who thought the Cats were going to be down for long, think again. Once again, John Calipari has a super recruiting class, this one even better than last year's. Why is Kentucky No. 1? Besides the recruiting class, led by the Harrison twins, Kentucky has veterans returning to provide experience. Kyle Wiltjer, Alex Poythress and Willie Cauley-Stein can help the newcomers learn the ropes, and that can make a difference. The 2012 national champions had players like Terrence Jones, Darius Miller and Doron Lamb available, and it helped.

Analysis: Having Gary Harris, Keith Appling, Branden Dawson and Adreian Payne back is good enough for me to believe the Spartans are legit contenders to cut down the nets at Cowboys Stadium. Tom Izzo is a master at tournament time and his team should make a serious run in 2014.

Analysis: This will be a different Duke team without Mason Plumlee, Seth Curry and Ryan Kelly. Rodney Hood will be eligible after transferring from Mississippi State. Jabari Parker is one of the premier diaper dandies in America. The return of Andre Dawkins will also help. Coach K will have another Final Four contender.

Analysis: Sean Miller has a talented nucleus returning, including Nick Johnson. The addition of Aaron Gordon, who was MVP at the McDonald's All America Game, is a major positive for the frontcourt after losing Solomon Hill.

Dick Vitale, college basketball's top analyst and ambassador, joined ESPN during the 1979-80 season. His thorough knowledge of the game is brought forth in an enthusiastic, passionate style. Vitale also contributes columns to ESPN.com.